GirlsDoMath Summer Enrichment Camp

GirlsDoMath logoJune 10-14, 2019

Experience mathematics from a new and exciting perspective

The GirlsDoMath Camp will provide an opportunity for girls who love mathematics to come together to engage in the exploration, research, and discussion of mathematical ideas.  During this week-long experience, the girls will expand their knowledge and skills guided by female professors, teachers, and undergraduate mathematics students who will foster a supportive and motivating environment.

Download Camp Flyer

During the camp, participants will:

  • Investigate fun topics in mathematics that are not typically taught in middle school.  Sample topics include, Groups and Symmetries, Combinatorics, and Continued Fractions.
  • Meet other girls with a passion for mathematics.
  • Choose one of three topics to explore in groups as part of a more in-depth research project.
  • Learn about some of the many contributions of women to the field of mathematics and in particular to the topics being considered in our camp.
  • Examine math-related careers and meet women who are in such careers.
  • Enjoy fun activities such as a math escape room, a tai chi brain break and team competitions.
  • Present their group's research results at an "end-of-camp" reception.
  • Spend time on the university campus and utilize some of the resources available at CMU including the University Library and Innovation Center.

Camp Schedule

The first two days of camp will be spent investigating exciting new math topics and also learning how to do library research.   On days three and four, the girls will work together in groups to explore one of the camp topics in more depth and will begin preparing a poster to exhibit their research.  Day five will include a visit to the CMU Innovation Center where participants will wrap up their research and finish their posters. In the afternoon of the last day of camp, we will host a reception and poster fair during which family members, teachers and counselors are encouraged to come and see the results of their student’s hard work.

Eligibility

All girls entering 8th or 9th grade who love mathematics and are excited about spending a week learning about new math topics are invited to apply.   In order to provide individualized attention to each camper, we will accept up to 25 students to the camp.  Due to the nature of the camp content and schedule, as well as our limited enrollment, applicants must commit to attending the full camp (5 days, 7 hours each day). 

Cost

Thanks to the support of our amazing sponsors and in particular, our Tensor Women and Mathematics Grant from the Mathematical Association of America, this year’s camp will be free to all admitted students.

How to Apply

For full consideration, your complete application must be received by Friday, May 10, 2019. A complete application includes:

  1. The GirlsDoMath Student Application.*
  2. A completed Recommendation Form from your current mathematics teacher or another teacher or counselor who can address your mathematical interest and ability.

GirlsDoMath Application

*Note: The Student Application includes a short essay.  Responses in the online Student Application form canNOT be saved and submitted later, so before you begin please review the first page of the application and prepare your response to the essay question.

Information for teachers/counselors who are recommending a student

The GirlsDoMath Camp is a mathematics enrichment camp for girls entering 8th or 9th grade. We are seeking girls who are highly-motivated, enthusiastic about math, and capable mathematics students. Admission to the camp is competitive and we place a high value on the input from a teacher or counselor who can speak to the student's ability to actively contribute to and benefit from such a program. Your carefully considered judgments will assist us with the admission process.

Recommendation Form

Please complete the GirlsDoMath Camp Recommendation Form. You may either scan the completed recommendation form and email to Tracii Friedman at tfriedma@coloradomesa.edu or mail to:

Dr. Tracii Friedman
CSMS Department
Colorado Mesa University
1100 North Ave
Grand Junction, CO 81501

Thank you for taking the time to recommend a student for GirlsDoMath Summer Camp!

Post-Camp Activities

There will be two organized events during the 2019-20 Academic Year where camp participants will have the opportunity to reconnect with each other and with the camp leaders.  Attendance at these events is strongly encouraged.

  • Camp participants will be invited to participate in a CMU Math Club activity.  Undergraduate women who served as camp leaders will help to organize and lead this activity.
  • Camp participants will be invited to our spring mathematics colloquium.

Questions?

If you have questions, please contact Dr. Tracii Friedman (tfriedma@coloradomesa.edu) or Dr. Cathy Bonan-Hamada (cbonan@coloradomesa.edu).

GirlsDoMath Summer Enrichment camp is sponsored by Tensor Women and Mathematics Grant from the Mathematical Association of America, Colorado Mesa University and the Colorado Mesa University Foundation